Happy Birthday to us 9th House folks whom had birthdays celebrated and those yet to have the birthday candles blown out. Plus if you’re a Sag like me whom celebrates all through the month of December or November birthday wise, I’m not alone. It’s our season to shoot the like the centaur for 30 days!

But there is a downside for me. I recently crossed into age 41 on December 5th without my father. As many of you know that I lost my father unexpectedly in February of this year, and like many I’m trying to get through this thing called the “new normal”. And if you know how it feels to lose a parent and to have your birthday celebrated months later without him or her, you know what I’m talking about. If you are one of those whom experienced that this year or years past, I join you. I join you and a constant thousands whom has lost a parent this year that was dear to us. It’s not easy. It’s not the same. And with the holidays are upon us of Christmas, Hanukah and Kwanzaa, we know about the many chairs to be filled up with relatives and friends coming over. We know this. And it’s bound to happen. But the emptiness of our loved ones like Dad won’t be here to celebrate. The last Christmas I spent with BOTH of my parents was last year in 2016. And my sister was in the Hospital. That was it. Even though we gone though hospital visits, and checking houses and semi-Christmas Shopping, we had Christmas! Period. And after my sister was home earlier this year, we had a make up dinner of Christmas, Thanksgiving and New Year’s all in one. As if we need to have it done with us being back and forth! And all it as done a month before my father’s death again unexpectedly this year. I’ll talk more about it AFTER Sag Season is done going into the end of the year.

But the thing is: WE CELEBRATED! WE HONORED! and this time, even though that Dad is not here in the body but the spirit, we will still celebrate the holidays period. We will still celebrate Christmas, period. And even though my parents’ anniversary is coming up on December 20th, and I can’t speak on that, but my mother can. I will honor the day that they were married. Without them, December 5th wouldn’t rock period! Also, I was reminded of what Gospel Singer Hezekiah Walker once said. And I don’t follow Gospel Music. Not a fan here. But he once said that even though we’re going through tough times, we can celebrate. And that’s what I’m doing all through the 12th month: CELEBRATE! I am celebrating life. I am celebrating of what was, and what is, and what will be. That is why this 12th month party of mine WILL NOT STOP. I don’t think my father wanted me to stop celebrating my birthday. We going to continue to celebrate, period! You Sags out there who can relate, can you understand that? I know you can. Even though we lost some soldiers along the way (Sags and non-Sags) but we still have to keep the game going. We have to train up new folks to lead this game. I say this to everyone. I don’t care if you like me as a Sagittarius, but best believe that we got to start training up new folks! We Sagittarians are born leaders, voyagers, and teachers, right? Yes? It’s not about what we know but also who we know! The glyph arrow always points upward and straight. Got to teach that! And speaking of voyagers, that is what we are also. Always seeking. Always searching. And always gathering knowledge where we go.

Sagittarius folks of the world: keep that up. We need to keep that going. I know our Capricorn folks are looking to take over, but before that happens, like I said at my father’s wake that we need to stay in the fight. We need to stay in the game. Be empowered. And mostly let all the folks know that we are still here!

Last year, I posted a video of “The Quietest Revolution” about us Sagittarians going though rough stuff. This year, I’m doing it again, but she talks about the New Moon and New you. This is for us Sagittarius folks who want to have that new moon signals and new moon ideas financially. But there are low points. Now I know I’m not into the tarots or card reading, but the ideas of searching new moons are basically is what is needed. My Sagittarius folks: let’s go for the new moon to shine. Not just in the coming year, but EVERYDAY!

2 weeks ago, as many already know that my father passed unexpectedly. And it was a shock to my family. As I reflected and reviewed with solace and bereavement, there were times I had a wave of emotions of Dad being there. In his Entertainment Room not moving. Even sentences of Frederick Douglass like “without struggle we cannot progress”. Every time I think about those words especially when those I know pass on, it is a struggle. That is what I felt all this time. Plus the word of empowerment popped up in mind even more.
I want to say to everyone on behalf of my sister and my mother: thank you. Thank you all for the acknowledgements, sympathies, inspirational messages of faith, prayers, cards, texts, and support in this hour of need.
Last year, I was reminded of my Dad said about leaving a mark. In his words, “I want to leave a mark.” By the looks of what I saw of the folks that came out for the funeral, for every mark left, even the committal service, that I think was Dad’s doing. No question about it. I know that August 18th will not be the same. That would have been his #70 coming up. December 20th won’t be the same. That is the anniversary of my parents marriage. And at Christmas Time, I give them both Christmas and Anniversary cards at the same time. That was fun.
In between I will never forget the memories nor the lessons learned. And to those that reached out, I’ll reach back. I know that this will take time, but with the support of you, it will make me to have hope to move forward.
Yes, my father had a good run. Make that a great run. 69 years strong. I am indeed a Veteran’s Son. 🇺🇸✊
Thank you, folks

Folks: I haven’t been on the blogs as of much. A primary reason because of a extreme matter that took place. My father recently passed on at 69 years old in Milwaukee, and like many in my family, we are saddened and shocked by his death. How did I felt really? This my statement via my Facebook page from February 24th, 2017:

I have breaking news to share. And I don’t know if I have the bravery to say this but I’ll manage. Folks, I am shocked and numb now to say that my Father, whom I’m named after, is now passed. Us in the family are taking this hard that this has occurred. Literally I know that when I hear folks passing away yes I feel this sympathy to be close. I also have this option to say to those that yes is to learn the lessons to move forward. Now it’s time for myself and my sister, to learn the lessons that my father taught us. For those of you that lost Fathers, I will listen to you. I will learn what you went through in order for me, my sister and most definitely my mother will take to move forward. My father was the last of his McClinton family bunch to pass on. And knowing my family will feel it knowing he’s in a better place. One thing for I know, Dad didn’t play. He was a straight shooter all the way and knowing yes was fair. There been many times that for financial reasons whether my sister or I had little money on hand or no money on hand: he was there. For moral support, he was there. He was there for my church (the same church that he was a member since 1969), things to fix around the house all the time. He was known to have a Corvette for alot of years, even a Honda V45 Manga Motorcycle, a Ford Truck, and a Cadillac Escalade. He also was known for his art talent of old school portraits, woodworking, at one time, playing a guitar, and of course gadgets and CPU’s – in which I got him interested. But mostly: he was known for being a Veteran of the Armed Forces. Served in the US Army between 1966-1968 before the tet offensive in Vietnam. Married to my mother since 1969 and again raised me and older sister. Plus he was an Alumni of the Milwaukee Public Schools. He went to Lee Elementary School, Roosevelt Middle School, and a true Blue Devil out of North Division High School “when it was real”, as he stated. And the jobs: Allis Chalmers, Pfister and Vogel Tannery, VA Medical Center and mostly the US Postal Service for his work for 27 years of service.
Yes I am sad, shocked and numb right now. And the pinch ain’t good. I will do my best to make sure that his memory as he stated last year: Leaving a mark. In which he did. My father Empowered (and I mean EMPOWERED) me to be the best of I do. Same with my sister. No question. I’ll be in and out of Social Media as this long process of setting up my Dad’s Service of life. That is all. Send condolences to my family at this time if you wish.
Thank you.At this time, I’ll be on a short hiatus with the planning of my Father’s funeral. Meanwhile, we ask for prayers and support in the hour of bereavement.

It’s the same show that has Anthony Anderson on point. Talking about the use of the N-Word, Pops being afraid to go to doctors, Nepotism, the truth behind the use of black lives, as in Black Lives Matter, and many other issues and concerns and a comedic side when it comes to African-Americans.

But this episode called “Lemons” which had the family and company talking about the election, and the win of Donald Trump: Folks If you HAVE NOT watched this show, it was so powerful! It needed to be said and viewed upon no reason. And oh, this is the same Black-ish show that Donald Trump talked smacked about being racist in all two and half years ago. For all those whom are Trump supporters or even Trump himself, just to clarify: Black-ish is not racist at all. Stop playing!

The highlights of the show, was centered at Dre’s job where most of the conversation was centered around the election. And of course the one half of the highlight was the character Lucy voted for Obama twice, but swung her recent vote to Trump. She expressed that she wanted a female president to run the country, but not her. Her as in Hillary Clinton. And the later reaction of the assumption of her being racist for her vote and have black friends resonated in a rebuttal of her chosen vote.

But the MAIN Meat of the second half was Dre’s viewpoint of America. These words as if not been repeated is this:

‘I love this country—even though, at times, it doesn’t love me back.’

Those words alone. I’ll bet many in my culture of African-Americans have probably been saying for years! Generations. Eras. Take notes, white folks. And the thing is yes, like Dre said, we’ve played ball. We continued to work in all. And the part Dre saying that even though he’s not shocked that Hillary didn’t win, or Trump got his upset win, the same situation didn’t change when it came to the state of Black America. And the thought that at times the way things go, not always the case when it comes to black folks. And the music of Strange Fruit was playing in the background.

Thinking back: those words of again, ‘I love this country—even though, at times, it doesn’t love me back.’ This reminds me of a quote by two black women whom said a similar quote. Research the Delany Sisters, Bessie and Sadie. And this quote:

“We love our country, even though it didn’t love us back.”

Does that sound familiar?

It should! Many of us in the Black Community probably again have been saying that for years.

Now this whole thing about Black-ish being all about racist out of the mouth of our soon-to-be President is flat out ridiculous. Probably he’ll never watch another show of it because of the dialogue he thinks it doesn’t resonate with him. Clearly it doesn’t. What does resonate that the ongoing saga of this country’s DNA of racism will still be examined.

Now keep in mind that Blackish is not The Cosby Show. Not Family Matters or Fresh Prince. Nor any other show like Good Times. Blackish is in its league of its own and like many of the shows before it, the issues of black concerns are still relevant today! Did I mention that Tracee Ellis-Ross won a Golden Globes Award for the show? Like 44 years after her famous mom Diana Ross won hers?

And even if you have a incoming President like Donald Trump talking smack about John Lewis about all talk and no action. Well we know the real resume of John Lewis is not as tainted like a soon to be 45th President.

Well folks, it seems that the season of the Centaur is about to end for another year. Awwww.I know. But It’s going to be alright! Yes, I know you Capricorns are about to take over that Zodiac Baton. But before you take over as well as any other zodiac takes over being the best:

One advice, never EVER overlook a Sagittarius! NEVER OVERLOOK a Centaur!

So with that: here is my “closing” that I like to call, Ode to Sagittarius: the Milestone version.

There are haters. There are doubters of those of us whom are centaurs roaming, let them hate but we all know that joy comes in the morning.

Many of you already know that on December 5th, I turned the age of 40, that I know that the game of the 40’s will not be a thing being shorty!

Those of us in the game acting, and those of us whom we aspire, like Bryshere Grey whom still make moves like Hakeem on Empire.

Sags like us are always on point even those whom think we are that slacker. They should be more focused and relaxed, like my December 5th birthday twin: Amy Acker.

We Archer folks love to bounce back. Even those whom think we are dead and able. Ask Aaron Rodgers whom recently was the NFC’s Offensive Player of the week that can run the table.

Us Sag folk can be direct and cool, that has the ability to soar to new heavens. But like Hal Williams back in his Lester Jenkins days, we can be more direct and serious like on 227.

Sagittarius folks, we love the freedom that we know. And embrace the look abounds that is united in force, just ask the new Miss America Champ and U.S. Army Soldier Deshauna Barber that gets the full source!

When that time to fight for our freedoms or personal stuff, we really settle the score of the stat, like wrestlers of Jerry Lawler, Dean Ambrose, Luke Harper, Rob Van Dam and Stone Cold Steve Austin, and even add this CERTIFIED G to the archer family: Enzo Amore! And you can’t teach that!

When the centaur roams like the stampede in the game, just take notes for all: Just take notes like Giannis Antetokounmpo, who wants to “Own The Future” with Milwaukee Bucks Basketball.

Even when we are ourselves, we Sagittarius folk are so revolutionary. So conscious. So empowered with objectives to create and maintain the cause: Review the work of Ella Baker, Adam Clayton Powell, Fred Gray, and even Dr. Carter Woodson, the father of Black History Month that NEVER stays on pause.

We might be fun, but can sassy with a brain: Just a reminder, Nene Leakes as well as Nicki Minaj appears to be fine, but can drive you insane!

When the source of fun is still going, and we are at the peak of success, we summarize also the work of those of that are doing it big, thanks to us being the best. Additionally, those like Wendie Malick, Joy Reid, Dick Van Dyke, Bob Barker, Cicely Tyson, JB Smoove, Samuel L. Jackson, Regina Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, Larry Bird, Jennifer Connolly, Rita Moreno, Monique, Jermaine Jackson, Bill Cunningham, Teri Hatcher, Nia Peeples, Judi Dench, Jeffery Wright, Kim Basigner (aka Vicky Vale) and additionally the now 100 year old Kirk Douglas of working and passing that test!

So yes, Sagittarius folks: we should be thankful and still be needed by the work of others with insight, we know it’s love and hate, and still we must fight. As this poem closes out another Sag year, on to Holidays, on to 2017, and let’s hit that reset button to our fiery zodiac cause to cheer!

We are the archers with Human Intelligence and Thoroughbred Strength of fire. Bows and Arrows on lock with insight.

Everyone knows how this goes. And it’s real simple. No need to link or google or even #Hashtag. Today, many around the country and in household or other areas, we Americans will be celebrating that holiday of food called Thanksgiving. From the Parades, to the NFL Games or other new traditional ideas that will boost the food day. And yes, there will be us going out to the clubs and shaking off the pounds to get loose for Christmas.

And yes, there will be constant reminders of the horrors that our Native American brothers and sisters will not participate in this Thanksgiving Day due to the killing of their ancestors outside of a church on a Sunday morning many moons ago. Henceforth, The National Day of Mourning.

But this holiday, yes does have the two words of Be Thankful of the things and ideas we already have. So here in it’s almost decade tradition, here is another traditional Stephen’s Spot Thanksgiving Blog of “Be Thankful”. Break out the tablets, Smartphones, PC’s or laptops. Start reading!

If you have a job that is good for you, be thankful.

If you don’t have a job and still looking and not giving up, be thankful!

If you have good insurance, be thankful.

If you have a good car or truck that gets you to work everyday, be thankful.

If you have an idea or a lead to get a good doctor, but don’t have one, but still want to get that monkey off your back, STILL be thankful about improving your health.

If you have a cool dentist, be thankful.

If you have voted this year despite of the viewpoints of this hard election year, be thankful.

If you have lost loved ones this year, and still feel down that the space is empty or the chair is empty, and you want to fill it up with a new generation of family members that want to pull ahead, be thankful.

If you had folks praying for you for all the things you’ve been experienced no matter good or bad, be thankful that there are folks that know, and are in your corner.

If you are expecting a raise in 2017 and will be getting it, be thankful!

Love your gifts and talents that are unappreciated? And still do them? Be thankful!

If you still got your parents as your back up, be thankful that they still care.

If you have a sibling in the freaking hospital, who is being taken care of, and you go there EVERYDAY, and hearing good news about coming home real soon, and I know this: BE THANKFUL!

Got good neighbors that know you? Be thankful.

Got a good plan to get that next step in your career, or a different career, and a mindset? Be thankful.

Expecting a milestone birthday? And willing to kick off a new fresh slate? Or had experienced it already? Be thankful.

Expecting a milestone anniversary? Or already did it? Be thankful.

If you are very introverted, and darn proud of it, and not ashamed to tell about it, be thankful!

Single and not in a relationship? Be thankful.

Married with or without kids? Be thankful.

Single and no kids? Be thankful.

Divorced? Be thankful.

Still have a church home that you stay and willing to have your kids to grow IN THE CHURCH? Be thankful.

If you have been given a side gig, and love it to be paid with that cash money or checks, be thankful.

Got a good pet? Be thankful.

If you give back to your community, your Alumni, your Church, your Scholarship Committees, your Fraternity, your Sorority, your Unions or other groups that have been treating you good all this time, be thankful!

If you have served in your community as a Election Inspector (like me) for 10 years or more and still work, BE THANKFUL!

If you have celebrated YOUR 10th anniversary as a Alum of your College or University(like me) , and still want to give back for another 10 years, BE THANKFUL.

If you appreciate the value of your former teachers or coaches, or former principals, of anyone that knew your value of education, be thankful.

If you can’t wait to eat to your meal that gives you life, be thankful.

If you read my old blogs that I can’t control of the reading, but still want to read what I want to say regardless from my black point of view, be thankful! Not just for me, but for you.

If you got stuff in your house that you want to give away, be thankful.

Got a good business? And it’s good for you to make that money like Uber or Lyft or It Works? Hey, be thankful!

If you switched your career to a new company in the past year, or will go to a new company, be thankful!

If you got many reachable sources to give, or to provide, or to share, and it’s really catching on, you better be thankful!

If you are looking forward to another holiday weekend of fun, be thankful.

If you are NOT shopping on Black Friday, but willing to spend Black Friday outdoors in the woods or parks, Be Thankful!

If you are not shopping on Black Friday, but willing to spend your cash at a local business, be thankful.

If you can’t wait to deck your halls for Christmas or Hanukah, or Kwanzaa, Be Thankful.

If you written a thank you note to the Obamas for their 8 years of service to this country, BE THANKFUL!

If you feel that my blogs are reaching to those who want to know something, and it’s been working, but want me go harder than this, tell me: should I be thankful for this talent like over 10 years?

If you are breathing right now normally: be thankful.

If you are walking tall real good, be thankful.

If you condemn any racist act on the internet, social media, at your job, or in the house, or in the neighborhood, or any act of disrespect, and you had to write letters of complaints to a certain company, STILL be thankful!

If you bought appliances for your house to use for another 10 years, be thankful!

If you got a plan to take a vacation, be thankful.

If you still got your old game systems on a Throwback Thursday, be thankful!

If you still listen to your old school joints on your radio, or maybe some new school material, be thankful.

If you are a conscious-minded person, a defensive-minded person that you know is best, for your own opinions, be thankful!

And finally: If I missed anything that many have thought about, and it’s good: we all should be and forever so thankful that we must march on. Like they say at the black funerals: It’s already been said.

Between 2017 and 2021, there will be a harsh reality that a guy like Donald Trump and those voting up for him in anguish against the Obama Crew all this time is really coming to light. And those of us that wanted to stay home and not exercising our right to vote is also that the rules haven’t sunk in enough. Well guess what ladies and gentlemen, THEY HAVE SUNK IN! For you Millennials or Blacks who haven’t voted or those who needed a reminder (after writing in Daffy Duck or Elmer Fudd) that Elections Have Consequences. You will hear that again. And again. And again.

This is like losing a championship in the big game. Really it does.

Looking at Hillary. I know she tried. Lord knows she tried. But I would like know is why she didn’t come to Wisconsin when she was campaigning? I know Chelsea, Tim Kaine, and others have been here. But why wasn’t SHE HERE?! Why wasn’t the Clinton campaign wasn’t going to the doors knocking, emails, public meetings, mobilizing, and signing up those that wanted to vote up? Specifically here in Wisconsin?!

Trump was in Wisconsin more than once. The airwaves were up. He was spending money like crazy. Not much for Hillary.

CALLOUT: Remember when Obama was running? Get used to saying that.

Remember when Obama was running and the folks were out in droves? Turnout was high as hell, and folks were also enthused to get to the polls. Going door to door, and everything. And it kept going and going. That machine was working. It was kicking butt and taking names! Plus a new way of politics was born under the birth of the Obama Crew.

But why not for Hillary and Tim Kaine? I think that has to be examined. As well as for the Democratic base and connections.I think also the so-called third party is to blame. Just like Ralph Nader took some of the votes from Al Gore and John Kerry. Oh I know you remember that, huh?! That Clinton machine though, even though we know it well, it was not working. I respect her service, but it was not enough. Not enough.

But oh no! Not even a close one.

And the list of Donald Trump’s demands though. Most of that might be gone.

Affordable Care Act: it might be over.

Executive Orders that Obama had: Over.

This is like removing Obama from historical assets. All this work in the last 8 years might be in serious jeopardy. It’s a problem! That’s like we partied so much but forgot to save the money for the nest egg.

So to say this: This really sucks. When I was working the polls on Election Day, I observed the people coming in and out. All of the 13 hours from sun up and sun down at my old High School. And it was my 10th Year serving. But when I looked at the results of the Official Turnout, that was part of it that wasn’t as sharp. It was a low medium turnout. Not a lot of people didn’t show up to vote. I know many heavily voted early. But the last minute surge wasn’t on point. And this is supposed to be a Presidential Election? REALLY?!! Why the low turnout?! That ain’t cool with me. Sorry! Especially in Wisconsin that got Trump the W.

All that energy, was just gone.

You have these women, these white women the most favoring Trump, after what he said about grappling vaginas in a sexual abuse manner: Disturbing. Even hating against Muslims, Mexicans and that wall and African-Americans. Most of the men with degrees and high school diplomas (white men) also favored Trump. All those who polled and asked: “who are you going to vote for?” I’ll bet your bottom dollar, the respondents probably lied in thinking Clinton, but favoring Trump. And voting for him. And again getting the W. And the issue of Voter Suppression still lingers.

So what happens now? What really happens now? What needs to be done?

First: EVERY Election future race must be examined. The city, county, state must NOT be overlooked. Period.

Second as we know: the Presidential Election must not be slept over. NOT EVER!

Third: The Clinton Machine that was working in the 90’s needs to retire. But I want to see a new machine that can grow again and also be unstoppable that can be better for the Democrats. Can Chelsea do this? I’m looking at her to be that new cog in that NEW Clinton Machine. Maybe Bernie can help out. Knowing he could. And don’t think that the Obama Machine is at far behind to be redesigned. Just wait haters.

Fourth: The DNC needs to retool, restock, retrain, and reload with new fresh talent. Not just the same old thing, but again: NEW FRESH TALENT! From the city alderman to the number one contender to the White House. Plus, the DNC needs to TALK THINK AND DO with African-Americans. That needs to be cleaned up.

Fifth: The black folks can not be shut out. Period. No matter who or what. Black folks: we need to let the upcoming administration know that no matter what happens, he will be examined. That’s like saying if Trump F’s UP his game as President: get on him. Just like when Obama said about accountability. I don’t care if you are a hard nosed Republican fan that shout N*gger words in public. Yeah I said it. Many of you will be saying it around that Thanksgiving Day Holiday and your co workers plus that individual you didn’t like. You the Trump Republican fans: You better hold him accountable in everything he does! Folks will be watching his every move. If he messes up: get on his case. If you don’t, others will. That is a promise. Even the German Challencelor had a not so friendly advice to Trump. Germany, as an American (whom did not vote for Trump) you have my international permission to hold Donald Trump accountable! And that goes for our allies as well. And no, I’m not running to Canada. I’ll visit Canada though. Plus also, black folks we need to get back to be real voters again. Not protest voters. REAL voters! We need to access our own businesses, our own economic status to improve, and build our time honored tradtions to get US to stay in the game. Even if we need to go into our own businesses if the so-called businesses don’t want us because we’re that one word: Black. Now for you non-blacks, you may think this is a racist remark, but to us, it’s the truth that many will not tell you. And some of you are married or worked with black folks.

Sixth: I was listening to WNOV this morning. And there was question about who will represent the Black Community in the Trump era? Black folks: Look to our Senators, Our Congressmen or Congresswomen. Our Alderpersons, regional leaders whom are black. Here in Milwaukee: We got just to name a few, Senator Lena Taylor, State Representative Jason Fields, Congresswomen Gwen Moore, Alderwomen Chantia Lewis and Milele Coggs, Alderman Ashanti Hamilton, Alderman Khalif Rainey, Alderman Cavalier Johnson, Alderman Russell Stamper II, County Supervisors: Marcelia Nicholson, Supreme Moore Omokunde, and Willie Johnson Jr. And no, I’m not putting Sheriff David Clarke on the list because I think now we in the community are waking up with the real truth about him. He’s not what he says he is. He don’t qualify. Other black leaders like Kamala Harris, Cory Booker, Shelia Jackson-Lee, and other well known black officials must not be overlooked either that can be viable to represent.

Seventh: We know that Donald Trump’s inauguration is in January. Of course we know. But just watch Obama’s last remarks.

Eight: Younger folks whom are 18-25 and love my blog, you need to realize that voting does matter. It matters when you register, actually get the ballot, vote your choices, and get a sticker. Plus also, you have to be engaged, educate your issues, concerns and many others. Many of you should have done that! If you didn’t vote, that is on YOU! You should have voted but instead worrying about the water in Michigan, tons of unemployment in Milwaukee or the ongoing saga of innocent black men slaughtered by the police, or the ongoing thing of HealthCare for others, you must be waking up dumb! Oh, Donald Trump talked about stop and frisk nationwide. Law and Order. If a racist cop pulls you over and the deadly frisk happens: DON’T SAY I DIDN’T WARN YOU! These new laws that the new upcoming administration would do would be far more deadlier than your expensive smartphone. Get your minds right quick! This is no game! It’s not a joke.

Yes, many of us are sad and scared. We need to be afraid. There is no telling what Donald Trump might do first, next or last. We won’t know if any of our allies would be able to trust our intellect, our civil rights, our employment, our education, our right to choose, our right to marry, our healthcare needs and wants, our trust, borderline neighborhoods, the small town, the big city, a new red state, or the same old blue state, or if anyone is bright enough, yes like Dr. King once said, we got some difficult days ahead. We got through the mess of Ronald Reagan, George W. Bush, trying to get over the junk of Scott Walker, and now, soon to be: this guy.

Oh for those of us whom of the Generation X, Y and Millennials whom are 18 and up to about 45, next week we like those many before us that have to make a decision: voting in a new administration for our country. Plus maybe activating or reactivating those whom want their seats back in the Senate, House, or others. No matter how we feel about the candidates or their stance, know this: WE NEED TO VOTE! No more hiding before the keyboards or being so called conscious about not voting period. The voting games maybe somewhat “rigged” but what are we doing to “unrig” it? Other than whining and complaining everything on Social Media or our cliques. Oh yes, I just went there.

To us voters between 18-45 years old:

It’s me, Stephen. You know that blogger you’ve noticed lately?

I haven’t written a blog letter in a minute, but I feel this is the blog letter that must be written. Our generation is in Crossroads mode.We see the signs of concern. Majority of us probably will and will not vote for a cluster of reasons. But look here: if you are not voting this Election Season towards the end of this year and write some stupid remark, then you must be dumb as hell. Do you realize that our future is on the line? Majority of us don’t have the caliber of our Baby Boomer and Greatest Generation counterparts who raised us to be where we are now. Yes, we have alot to be grateful for right now, but we must not overlook the playbooks that got us here in the first place. Many of us got great degrees, owing our stuff like clockwork. Nothing wrong with that. I see that everyday. But again, we didn’t get here on our own. Many of us know that we had folks whom acted wise and gave us butt whoppings acting up pushed us to a point where we want to be.

Had a chance to talk to my 70 year old mother today and we compared contrasts about why there are those of us who know about the assasinations of MLK and others in our history books, BUT NEVER LIVED IT! She highlighted that if it weren’t for Black people in Milwaukee years ago, there wouldn’t be black folks living near the Grand Aveune Mall or any other part of Wisconsin Avenue. And it seems that about the Millennials: the act of not acknowledging about the past before them and keeping it current is not right. If you are a Millennial and only will vote for the locals and not national is not a good idea. If you are a Gen Y that stated on Social Media that you will not vote: that is inexcusable! And if you a Gen Xer who would think that Daffy Duck, Casper the Ghost, Jesus Christ, Lion-O, Cobra Commander, Optimus Prime, Megatron, or Mickey Mouse would make the cut on your ballot, CLUELESS! That will get no play. NONE. And the thing is it’s like we don’t no part of this.

This also probably have ties to slavery in some ways that the way of thinking of back then, translates to now. Yeah I said it! I know some of you probably don’t want to hear that, but guess what: It’s part of the painful truth like White Supremacy. And we in the black community know it.

Remember when Cory Booker talked about of the Gen X’ers being on third base after all being drunk and happy like we don’t see the real reasons why we can’t have all this goodies that many of our folks fought hard to get! And I don’t give a care how educated we are. Yeah we got those degrees hanged up on our walls and offices. But many of US aren’t educated to give back to our Alumni functions for scholarships! Hmmmmm…Oh you think I ruffled the feathers? I told the truth!

Many of us aren’t “educated enough” to go to the doctor, and yes ladies I know it’s “Movember” in which men have to be on our game when our health is on the line. But here’s my question, isn’t every month a Movember?! Whereas the every month is Aids, Cancer, Diabetes Prevention, Domestic Violence Awareness, Gun Violence Awareness, and any other Awareness on the calendar? Tell me I’m wrong! Not just men, but also women and children.

I need to see a “VOTING AWARENESS” Month. And it doesn’t matter whom is on the ballot, I just want to Vote Up!

I want to see a “CAREER AWARENESS” Month in which many of us whom are unemployed and underemployed that want to work and make a freaking LIVING! Many of us or some of us got that drive, but not actually executing it to the next level.

If we can have THOSE AWARENESS Months like Cancer, Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Childhood Health, Bullying, Gun Violence Awareness and any other awareness that we put up each month, I want to see a Career Awareness and a Voting Awareness month. I suppose you guys like that, huh?

For voting: I think we’re just not engaged. I think the sign came at the top of the year that 2016 will be a “Hard Election” in which the main Administration of the Obamas will be going out in January 2017. And yes, every single hater on the planet will be waving that goodbye flag in a racist manner. President Barack Obama will be deeply missed that he wasn’t that bad after all. Maybe there were those that should have given him more credit of the work he did. Maybe those so-called fools who decided to go against all the calls that Obama did try to bring out should have worked. Even fully try to decide the best course for the Afforable Care Act. In which like Black Lives Matter is working. That’s right I said it!

What does it all mean, you ask? Well yes we’ve made some great strides, but the work IS STILL NOT DONE! That means we have to work hard, do our jobs everyday, give back, fight the forces of racism, sexism, shaming, and any other ISM that is on our target list. For us black folks, we have to always work twice as hard. That will never change no matter who is in office. Enough of us being all so-called conscious after looking at Hidden Colors. Enough of all the mess. Enough of the “I gotta go get my hair done than voting” talk. If we can stand in line to get that new IPhone or at the club looking at Lil’ Boosie, can we stand in line to vote on November 8th and EVERY SINGLE ELECTION DAY AFTER THAT?!

The elders will be leaving us soon and they have already solidified the future, but it’s mainly up to us to take care of the things we have to do to extend the life of groups, organizations, churches, your business connections, the schools, colleges, Alumni Associations, and others. It’s not just the next four years, it’s the four after that. And so on.

So: GenX, Gen Y and Millennials: STOP BEING SO F-ING LAZY! Stop this being that “this won’t effect me”. Oh it will. After Election Day is done, don’t even think about complaining on Facebook, your texing buddies, or any other connection that you weren’t the ones who went to the polls and didn’t cast a ballot. I’ve been voting for 20 years out of my life and I voted in boring elections, high elections, and elections I never really cared about. Plus when Obama was being elected for the first time. But I still voted regardless and I don’t have a complaint to do it!

So why in THE HELL are we tripping? STOP THE PAIN! STOP THE LAZINESS! And just put away all this mess that voting that won’t make it. It will make it, but you have to put in the WORK! I don’t care if you hate Hillary’s guts or like her ideas, or despise the effect of Donald Trump and what he recently said about nasty women, the disabled, getting the clues of turning back the clock with Jim Crow, and the on going talk about the 1994 Crime Bill that BILL CLINTON put into effect way back. Hillary had nothing to do with that. Let’s be clear on this. Now add that to the radio or websites.

This is not a reality show, nor back in High School where you used to believe EVERYTHING! But in reality, when leaving High School and those rumors, will be addressed and debunked personally.

I was going to wait after the Olympics to blog again. But the reason for this, the Northside of Milwaukee was up in total anger with fires and tension. And to connect with social media for those of where to go and meetup and havoc. How stupid.

I had to break away from watching the Olympics in which was a historical performance, to see the ironic tension of looting, fires, deep tension and many other concerns that plagued this city. 44th and Auer is where the shootings started. A 23 year old was shot and killed in the view of the Milwaukee Police Department. And yes after that, all hell broke loose. And a weapon was stolen with 23 shots rang out. And bricks being thrown.

The hell that broke loose, also continued with bus shelters, and street lights near Sherman and Auer were damaged. The BP Gas Station in the same area where a protest happened a month ago: burned. Right near Sherman Park. Further blocks away, more fires happened at a Jet Beauty Store near 35th and Burleigh. Also a O’Reilly Auto Parts in the same area, engulfed in flames. Nearby, a BMO Harris Bank right near my old Middle School had smoke issues in the building . All of this many feel that the black community has not had no love. And the thing is, it’s a warning sign.

Now I know that many had to go in about Milwaukee in which like comparing this riot to a championship win. Or there are those who don’t care about the city and having this shrugging shoulders mixed with pinned up frustrating matters.For all those who think have the answers and are acting foolish, SIT DOWN and Shut up! Clearly those don’t have all the answers. I don’t give a care if you transplanted to Texas or Atlanta or the East Coast, or the West Coast or a well known international region, you’re living there now. But I’ll bet none of you never actually really care about this city known as Milwaukee!

If so, PROVE ME WRONG! Send a long distance donation to your old schools and charitable functions you left behind.

Many of you have this noting about “oh well that’s Milwaukee for you when the violence happens.” Really?! Is that what those think? Seriously? All you have to do is go on Twitter, Facebook in all and with the negative remarks on the likes of CNN commenters saying “yeah tear down that stuff, you bunch of hoodlums!” If many of you so-called Americans say that, I consider that being unpatriotic! And many folks know it!

Now for those of us here in Milwaukee. Those of us who work, pay our taxes, contribute to our causes, we need to rise more. We need to rise up like a freaking phoenix. We can have the clergy coming out, the community leaders, the fraternity, the sorority, the employed, the unemployed, the underemployed,the neighbor that looks out, the neighborhood leaders, the hardcore activist, the conscious, the not so-conscious, the in between, the Introverted, Extroverted, Ambiverted, the Unsung Heroes, and many other categories: Rise like the Phoenix! It’s time to do it. For the police, firefighters, EMTs, your are in this as well! We pay our taxes, so your salary stays on point.

Just the other day, a day after all the burnings, I took a trip near the corner of Sherman and Burleigh and my reaction to the damage in person of the BP Gas Station was just shocked. The anger. The concern. And began to ask why this. Why would ANYONE like this would destroy a Gas Station?! Why? I went to my Nikon Camera and like everyone else, I snapped about several pictures that was like this:

And also, if many have not guessed it, a stream of cars on Sherman Boulevard going south and north was nearly jammed packed. The same with vehicles going East on Burleigh Street. Television Trucks of ABC7, WKOW, CNN and many others from the different parts of America came out to cover this tradgey that has sparked my home city’s unrest. Also, there folks preaching the word on Megaphones on both corners. Water was on sale on the corner where Sherman Park is along with individals giving away cupcakes and free hugs.

As I left the area, I driven North on 44th Street towards Auer Avenue, this was the area that the shooting began. And plus it was nearly jammed packed with cars and also residents and ministers as Salvation Army Chaplians.

The day after, I went further east to take pictures of the 7th District Milwaukee Police Station where it was roped off with Caution tape and boarded up. Also, the BMO Bank was boared up after it was struck by fire. A MetroPCS store was boared up after looting as well as a restaurant of KFC/Taco Bell was broken up with glass. Nearby an O’Reilly AutoParts store was destroyed by fire as well as a Jet Beauty Store not only looted, but also was destroyed by fire as well.

Ladies and Gentlemen of America, this was the experience that Milwaukee endured during that weekend of unrest. And like many others in the past, it was an unrest concern that never should have happened. The Sherman Park Neighborhood is a legendary neighborhood. I know so because my older sister and I used to reside in the area between the years 2000 and 2006. We resided on Grant Boulevard in a church parsonage in which was near Center Street. I used to catch the 22 MCTS bus to go either to work, school, shopping or church. Nearby, there was a barbershop where I used to go to get my haircuts. An organization called ASHA Family Services is in that area along with the Ritz Fish Market near the corner of 38th and Center, and it was and is owned by my family members. My old elementary school, 38th Street School, (now under the Milwaukee College Prep) is in that area. Washington High School, my high school’s rival is in the area. The homes in the area are almost legendary with years going back to about 100 years old. This is what I learned back then and understand now. Plus also, the Sherman Park Neighborhood is an active diverse neighborhood and still is. And plus I’m a northside born resident.

But I want to go back to this shooting. And I know that many are asking: what compelled this act of shooting that lead to this burning of several buildings, cars, houses, and others that had NOTHING TO DO WITH THIS MATTER?! We know already that Milwaukee is the well known factor of being the most hyper-segregated city in the United States. That is part of the things that goes mostly heard and widely examined in the entire state of Wisconsin. Many have this notion of leaving Milwaukee and go to places like Atlanta just to get away from the violence and racism. And also talking smack about the city in which they failed to help out. Oh trust me, we had a whole lotta folks have felt that way! But many of us WHO ARE STILL HERE, are upholding our accountabilty of our taxes, our jobs, our way of life, and purpose of being more engaged to solve the problems of our well being. What we have expereinced here most recently, is nothing more what happened 49 years ago before I was born: when Milwaukee had the race riots of 1967 and the black community back then was going up in flames. That area is now called MLK Drive in Bronzeville. And the trauma of being in the predictament of the segregated climate still lingers even today. Not just in Milwaukee. But that same symptom also exist like racism in America’s DNA. I don’t give a crap where you are in America, that racism DNA has not gone away. Even after 240 years.

But in this era, the 23 year old Syville Smith, whom had a CCW Licence, and was armed with a stolen weapon from Waukesha, was shot to death. Nevermind the history of his life, or the crimes he may have done, his killer per se happens to appear as a officer of the Milwaukee Police Department. Many of us in Milwaukee looked at the person’s picture on Facebook. And according to a family member of the victim, it was known that they go way back to High School here in Milwaukee. Try Pulaski High School, and no disrespect to the Pulaski Rams in all. Plus W.E.B. Dubois High School in the Marshall Complex.

Other points, there are those around Milwaukee should have kept their mouths closed. One of them is Sheriff David Clarke. The reason being he kept hinting about the use of the National Guard to aid the Police Officers during the Unrest incidents. And in his own words having the gaul to blame the single mothers of Milwaukee for the incidents and and of course: Black Lives Matter. REALLY SHERIFF CLARKE?! He must be high on something to say that. And plus, Black Lives Matter or his words “Black Lies Matter” were not the reasons why some buildings in Milwaukee went up in flames. Sheriff Clarke already embarasses himself and Milwaukee County hanging out with the likes of Donald Trump. HOW DEPRESSING OF HIM! Yes he’s still the Sheriff, but in the next two years he and another guy, Scott Walker MUST BE VOTED OUT! And part of the blame that Sheriff Clarke has his job is because of those in the Black Community voted up for him to have another 4 years. Why? Because he’s black. I think the Black Community needs to rethink their votes for Clarke. Speaking of Walker, dude had to come to a black church in Milwaukee not to far from the BP Gas Station. Let me remind Milwaukee one thing: Walker doesn’t give a da*n about Milwaukee! He doesn’t care about the Black Community, nor the needs. Remember the High Speed Rail Train that was BUILT in the Black Community? Go back to that. That was derailed by HIM due to one word: politics. Now he wants in to be supportive of the Black Community. Really Walker?! Oh please! And additional group of folks outside of the city, who don’t even in live in Milwaukee had the nerve to put the blame on President Barack Obama. Obama is not the blame for this! So stop it non-Milwaukeeans!

But of all of the folks who seemed to be in supportive the most of Milwaukee, is Mayor Tom Barrett. Call me crazy, but he is. Another is the still Wisconsin Senate Rep from the 4th District, Lena Taylor. Ashanti Hamilton, President of the Common Council, Alderman Russell Stamper II, and Alderwoman Chantia Lewis are just a few. The curfew in Milwaukee under 18 is in effect. Sherman Park closes at 6pm and roped off with orange. When it switches to the MPS Curfew starting September 1st that’s every night. And that was activated this past Sunday.

Speaking of Sunday, I was in church and during our “joys and concerns” we highlighted the concerns of the Unrest Issue. One of my millennial church members talked about the incident in which it was witnessed in person. She indicated that her younger brother was about 2 cars behind the shooter’s car going east on Burleigh near the Jet Beauty Store, and indicated that if one of those bullets hit him, he would have been gone. She also comforted an Police Officer near the Beauty Supply Store who was going though that high alertness of concern of another citizen. The last thing she said: God Bless You. And a tear was starting to roll on the Officer. I just had to tell you that because whenever I hear about church folks being all judgmental or acting hypocritical, NOT ALL OF THEM ARE LIKE THIS. And my church member is a single mother in her 20’s.And is a prayer warrior in my church under the United Methodist banner. Is she always like this? Just maybe you need to visit The New St. James Community Church UMC in Milwaukee and find out. And plus the setting of our church is in a County Park Pavilion on Milwaukee’s East Side. And the church is the first African-American United Methodist Church established in the city since 1949.

Just today, the ATF was sprung into action to survey the damages. And it was announced that a reward of $10,000 for anyone who knew what happened and also those responsible for those alleged damages. For all you snitches in Milwaukee: FESS UP! Don’t go into Stop Snitching Mode like cowards back in the day. Whenever the Federal Government comes on the scene, it’s is a huge concern. The sticks got a whole wide larger than before. This is not a game! It’s real lives were and are still at stake!

Milwaukee is 170 years old. And in the 170 years it faced open gaps of unemployment, segregation, violence, arson, race riots, shootings, festivals going in and out (African World Festival) educational values questioned and answered, underemployment of applicants/jobs, and many other concerns and factors. However in the 170 years, Milwaukee remains a underestimated city that has some good in it. We can talk about Summerfest, the Art Museum, The Pabst Theater, Riverside Theater, the newly soon to be Lakefront Gateway Area, the soon to be Northwestern Mutual Tower, the other festivals that do go past Summerfest, Garfield Days, Juneteenth Day Parades, Bronzeville Arts, riding Bublr Bikes, and soon to be construction of the New Bucks Arena and the Streetcar.

Why has Milwaukee been like this?

It’s not Chicago, Atlanta, LA, San Francisco, Seattle, Texas, Florida, and other cities and states that mostly “knows” black folks. Milwaukee as medium-sized as it is, its well known for Harley-Davidson, MillerCoors, our County Parks, and past relations with being the Beer Capital of the World, Bowling Capital of the world at one time, or known in the past for shows like Happy Days and Laverne and Shirley. Oh, did I mention that The Blues Brothers, Public Enemies, and Transformers were filmed here? Famous Americans like Bud Selig, Eric Benet, Al Jarreau, Gene Wilder, George Tillman Jr, Charlotte Rae, Speech, Tank were all born here. The Core DJ’s a well known DJ organization is known for DJ’s around the world, but it was started in Milwaukee. Wrestling has a history here. From AWA of Da’ Crusher, to the birth of Austin 3:16. And also currently in the WWE, Austin Aries is a born resident.

Milwaukee does have a Urban Scene that is so underground that is hard to get airplay on a V100, a Jammin 98.3, KISS FM, and others. Also Milwaukee does have some support of it’s genre of Hip Hop, but the fans say that the City has haters because the lack of support. However, not all Milwaukeeans don’t listen to rap music! Some listen to Polka or other genres. But every ethnic group has their own thing.Well known here: Ray Nitti, Rusty P’s, Charles Walker Band, Element, and Coo Coo Cal just to name a few.

For radio, we know WTMJ. But I know 1290 when it was the talk of the town. WNOV as many know us the lone wolf of black radio that many folks still listen to. Plus also there are podcasts, and other radio stations like WUWM that is well known for based on UW-Milwaukee.

Milwaukee to me is misunderstood. Very misunderstood. Our education system isn’t that bad. The Milwaukee Public Schools is legendary around here and it’s the same age as the city.I am a product to call myself an MPS Alum because of the schools of 38th Street School, Jackie Robinson Middle School and John Marshall High School.Not only that, I come from a line of educators that taught in MPS in my family! Some of our famous folks are MPS Alums also. Our Colleges of the Milwaukee Area Technical College, Mount Mary, Marquette University, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee are fully known educational institutions. I’m a product of the Milwaukee Area Technical College which I got an Associates Degree in the year 2000. The program was Printing and Electronic Publishing in which I got my hands dirty in Bindery and Offset Press.

Part of Milwaukee’s history was the tanneries. Pfister and Vogel, Albert & Trostels should ring a bell. And some of our family members used to have those good paying jobs growing up! Now the tanneries are gone, and mostly the Health Care fields are in exchange, with retail, customer service, and some manufacturing are left. Printing was also huge here. It’s still exists under the digital level, but not really enough as it once was.

Milwaukee has some strong programs here that many recognize like the Running Rebels, True Skool, and mostly now known is getting recognition: We Got This. Also part of the strong programs, does have a direct connection with local churches, community counterparts, some well known companies, and neighborhood block watch organizations.

But all in all, like any other city, Milwaukee is not alone with problems. And with the issue of this recent shooting of Syville Smith is not a stranger of gun violence period.

I’m sure that many in the country had already seen Barbershop: The Next Cut. Most of us had seen the first two since we were introduced to Calvin and Eddie. Plus Terri, Jimmy, JD, Dinka, and others. Plus yes Ricky and Issac. But on this third movie, the Barbershop is still on point. The most recent scenes of Chicago’s Violence issues hit home, and yes there is laughter. Plus the old beauty shop from the second Barbershop/BeautyShop is now one shop due to the recession. Even though the times have changed, the messages of lessons learned still ring true.

Now I’m not going to spoil the movie here. But I am going to say this: The lessons in the movie will be an examination of what we must learn from. From 48 hour cease fires to preventing our young black males going to gangs and squashing beefs of rivals.

My question is in all, is all the Barbershops especially the Black Barbershops are still the cornerstone or staples of the Community? And for the record I’ve had my haircuts in Black Barbershops, and still get them!

And yes in Black Barbershops, you will hear about jobs, health, entertainment, and if you’re lucky you might watch a flick. You ‘ll hear the old school, new school collaborating topics that everybody in the Black Community already knows.

But like the churches, community centers in all, in regarding this violence going around its time to take our streets back! Every Barbershop and Beauty Shop in America needs to take heed as an idea from the movie, to help out the violence that is plaguing our neighborhoods and especially our young folks.

We know the programs. But we need more!

“On a sidenote, Milwaukee is represented in the movie. Milwaukee natives (and Alums of John Marshall High School) George Tillman Jr is one of the three producers of the movie, and Marcia Wright makes an appearance in the flick as well. So yes, Milwaukee Public Schools Alumni are at work!